In a notable development in regional diplomacy, a senior Saudi delegation led by Minister of Investment Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih arrived in Damascus on Wednesday to take part in the Saudi-Syrian Investment Forum—a move that underscores growing efforts to repair ties and build economic bridges between the two nations.
The forum, held under the guidance of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, brought together over 130 Saudi investors and business leaders, highlighting a strong official push towards reviving trade, investment, and development ties with Syria after years of diplomatic estrangement.
According to Syria’s state-run SANA news agency, the forum is aimed at forging strategic partnerships that serve sustainable development and mutual economic interests. The gathering is seen as a turning point in Saudi-Syrian relations, with both sides expressing readiness to engage in broad-based collaboration.
Key events included the inauguration of the Fihaa white cement plant in Adra Industrial City, as well as high-level discussions on agreements in critical sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and construction.
Speaking to Al Arabiya, Saudi Ambassador to Syria Dr. Faisal Al-Mujfel said that Saudi investors are now welcome to operate freely across all sectors in Syria. He noted that the forum is a symbol of the Kingdom’s support for Syria’s economic recovery, institutional reconstruction, and territorial integrity.
The Saudi Ministry of Investment echoed these sentiments in an official statement, stressing that the visit reflects directives from the Crown Prince to strengthen regional partnerships and contribute to long-term peace and prosperity in Syria.
The initiative also received presidential attention. On Tuesday, Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa held talks with Saudi business leaders, including Mohammed Abu Nayyan, Chairman of ACWA Power, and Suleiman Al Muhaidib, Chairman of Al Muhaidib Group. Discussions centered on expanding bilateral economic cooperation with an eye toward sustainable growth and shared development goals.
In a move to facilitate greater engagement, the Saudi Embassy in Damascus announced that special travel permits for businessmen and investors from both countries are now available, allowing for reciprocal visits and deeper exploration of commercial opportunities.
The renewed Saudi-Syrian dialogue comes amid broader regional shifts, with economic diplomacy increasingly taking center stage in reshaping post-conflict partnerships.
The forum is being widely interpreted as a signal of Saudi Arabia’s willingness to reintegrate Syria into the Arab economic fold and reflects Riyadh’s evolving foreign policy priorities centered around stability, reconstruction, and regional integration.
As talks progress, the outcomes of this renewed partnership could have far-reaching implications for investment and reconstruction efforts across Syria.
